With autumn well under way and winter knocking on our doors, make preparations to ensure your home stays well heated this winter.
You may also want to know how to reduce the cost of heating your home while still staying comfortable. It does not take much to reduce home energy expenses, particularly when the months of January and February arrive.
Keep the Furnace Well Maintained
Proper maintenance of the HVAC system before the start of the cold weather season is among the most important things that you can do to reduce you heating expenses. Heating systems filled with dust and dirt require more energy to push warm air across the clogged debris. Setting up an annual maintenance schedule with a St. Louis HVAC company ensures that all issues are managed before it becomes necessary to repair or replace the entire heating unit.
Invest In an Energy Efficient HVAC System
Consider replacing your HVAC system if it is at least ten years old. An energy efficient HVAC system is the best choice if you are looking for a suitable replacement for the existing HVAC system in your home. With the latest developments in technology in the last ten years, making an investment in an energy-efficient heat pump or furnace is practical since it will allow you to save on heating expenses over the next few years.
Sealing All Gaps and Leaks
Although you may have used caulk and weather stripping to cover all gaps in the windows and doors a year ago, it is essential to inspect all the doors and windows again for any new holes from where heated air may escape. It is also important that all gaps in the duct systems are covered. CNN Money has revealed that home owners can increase the heating efficiency of their homes by 40 percent if they fix all holes in the duct system.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Consider using a reliable programmable thermostat for your HVAC system. Programmable thermostats are reasonably priced and can pay for themselves within a few months after they are purchased. Programmable thermostats are also capable of automatically lowering the temperature of the home when you go to work or when everyone is sleeping.
Lower the Temperature
Lowering the temperature of the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for around eight hours may save your around 15 percent on you heating expenses during the winter, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
These tips can help you and your family stay warm during the chilly winter months and at the same time keep your heating expenses under check. If you want to know more about energy efficiency, you can request your HVAC company to conduct an energy audit and recommend additional ways to conserve energy.